Cyproheptadine

Medically reviewed by Joseph Blais, Pharmacist

Last updated on 24/03/2021.

GENERIC NAME: Cyproheptadine

BRAND NAME(S) IN HONG KONG: Appetin, Cyprodine, Marching (Contains Cyproheptadine, Cyanocobalamin and others), Qualiactin-2, Vickmans (Contains Cyproheptadine, Cyanocobalamin, Pyridoxine and others)

DRUG CLASS: Antihistamine (first generation)

USED FOR: Symptomatic relief of allergy such as hay fever, urticaria and pruritus, appetite stimulant

OTHER DRUGS IN THE SAME CLASS: Brompheniramine, Chlorpheniramine, Cinnarizine, Cyclizine, Dexchlorpheniramine, Diphenhydramine, Hydroxyzine, Promethazine,, Triprolidine

AVAILABLE DOSAGE FORMS:
– 2mg/5ml (syrups)
– 4mg (tablets)

What is Cyproheptadine for?

Cyproheptadine is a sedating (first generation) antihistamine that can relieve allergic symptoms from hay fever (rhinitis), allergic conjunctivitis due to inhaled allergens and foods and mild allergic skin conditions such as hives. Because it is sedating, it can also help with sleep disturbances caused by itchiness.

How to use it?

Cyproheptadine can be taken by mouth as syrup or tablets. Adults usually take 4-20 mg 3 times a day (every 8 hours). The maximum daily dose is 32 mg.

What are the side effects of Cyproheptadine?

Common side effects of Cyproheptadine include drowsiness and dizziness, dry mouth, fatigue, headache, nausea, blurred vision, impaired concentration, and abnormal coordination.

Who should not take Cyproheptadine?

– People allergic to Cyproheptadine or any formulation component
– Newborn, premature babies or breast-feeding mothers
– People who are on monoamine oxidase inhibitors
– Patients with angle-closure glaucoma or acute porphyria (a blood disorder)

Pharmacist Tips:

– Many antihistamines are available in combination products. Pay attention to the active ingredients when you are choosing over-the-counter medicines for self-treatment. Do not overdose.
– Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how you respond to Cyproheptadine.
– Elderly patients (>65 years old) may be more sensitive to the side effects of Cyproheptadine.
– Young children may have excitation after taking Cyproheptadine.
– If you have an enlarged prostate, you should speak with your doctor or pharmacistof pharmacist before taking Cyproheptadine.

Common dosing schedule:
You can take Cyproheptadine with or without food.

Take Cyproheptadine at night if you become drowsy after taking the medication. (Daytime sedation can be relieved by taking non-drowsy antihistamines as alternatives.)

This schedule is for reference only, adjustments may be made according to individual needs.

Some common medications Cyproheptadine may interact with:
– Alcohol
– Antipsychotics, e.g. Aripiprazole, Clozapine
– Buprenorphine
– Hypnotics, such as benzodiazepines (e.g. Lorazepam, Midazolam), Zopiclone, Zolpidem, Chloral Hydrate
– Opioid analgesics, e.g. Morphine, Tramadol

Please notify your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking the above medication, dosage adjustments might be needed.

Where to buy Cyproheptadine in Hong Kong?

In Hong Kong, Cyproheptadine is an over-the-counter medicine which can be purchased without a prescription from any retail outlet in Hong Kong. This includes grocery stores, convenience stores, medicine shops, and pharmacies. It can also be obtained from doctors. To find a pharmacy near you, refer to the list of pharmacies (“Authorized Sellers of Poisons”) from the Hong Kong Department of Health.

For more information about drug names and ingredients, you can visit Hong Kong’s Drug Office at https://www.drugoffice.gov.hk

Need more information?

For detailed information about the use of Cyproheptadine in children, pregnancy and breastfeeding, and for questions about drug interactions, please check with your pharmacist or doctor.

Disclaimer: our goal is to provide you with the most relevant drug information and common dosage for Hong Kong. This information does not constitute medical advice. For specific treatment recommendations and advice, always discuss with your doctor or pharmacist, and follow the instructions included with your specific medicine.